Bill > SB0526

This bill modifies the procedure for local governments to create special rules for watercraft use on lakes and water bodies in Michigan. Currently, when a local political subdivision wants to establish special rules for vessel use, they must submit a resolution to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), which then conducts a comprehensive investigation. The bill introduces a significant change for lakes without public access: if 75% of riparian property owners support a proposed rule, the DNR must automatically grant the request, allowing the local government to adopt and enforce the ordinance without going through the standard investigative process. For other water bodies, the existing detailed investigation process remains largely unchanged, requiring the DNR to evaluate factors such as safety, water body characteristics, navigation challenges, user conflicts, and accident history. The bill also slightly modifies the language around how local governments submit their requests and how the DNR responds, including changing some terminology (like replacing "assure" with "ensure") and clarifying procedural steps. The overall goal appears to be providing more flexibility for local governments while maintaining a structured approach to regulating watercraft use that balances local needs with broader safety considerations.

Government Affairs

https://legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2025-SB-0526